Local body polls: Days after Fadnavis’ ‘Mahayuti partners may fight separately’ remark, Shinde visits PM Modi

Four days ago, speaking to journalists at a Diwali function, Fadnavis, commenting on the Mahayuti’s strategy in the local body polls, had said the ruling alliance will fight the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections in Mumbai unitedly. “But in other places, we will take a decision according to the local situation,” he said, hinting at the possibility of alliance partners fighting separately in many places. “If we fight as a grand alliance (Mahayuti), Opposition seats may increase. Therefore, we will fight independently without being overly emotional and after winning, we will come together as a grand alliance,” he said. The CM added that a study was being done on the Thane Municipal Corporation — Shinde’s bastion — based on which a decision will be taken whether to fight as a grand alliance or separately there.

The unilateral announcement by Fadnavis on alliance partners contesting separately is unlikely to have gone down well with the Shiv Sena led by Shinde. Ongoing feuds between the Sena and BJP leaders at various places have already created a rift within the two parties on the ground. With local BJP units firm on going solo, Shinde is seen to be courting the top BJP leadership. Shinde’s sudden visit to PM Modi is seen as a tactic to pressurise the local BJP leadership to give in to his demands.

Recently, speaking at the India Today conclave 2025, Fadnavis said he would continue in Maharashtra for the next five years. “I work in the BJP and I know that in our party, no individual makes a decision. From what I understand, let me make it clear, I am in Maharashtra for the next five years. I am not going anywhere,” he said.

Shinde is said to be sulking over not being made the CM again post the Assembly polls in 2024. With Fadnavis announcing that he is not moving anywhere for the next five years and even announcing the alliance’s poll strategy unilaterally, the former CM is seeking support from the leadership in Delhi, sources said.

During his visit to PM Modi, Shinde extended Diwali greetings. He presented the PM with a shawl, a bouquet of flowers and an idol of Saint Tukaram Maharaj. Shinde said the two had positive discussions on various issues of the Centre and the state.

On the local body elections, Shinde said, “These elections are at the grassroots level. Workers are ready but the final decision is taken by the senior leadership. Once the decision is made, all workers should follow discipline,” he added.

Regarding the internal differences in the Mahayuti, Shinde said, “There should be no differences in the Mahayuti. Everyone should be careful not to spoil it,” he said.

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